Prior to our project, Domiz 2 camp had no mental health support, therapy or educational activities specifically for men and boys. According to local authority and community representatives who participated in consultation meetings we held, psychological disorders, suicidal tendencies and gender-based violence had all been rising sharply.
In response to this, we worked with Khaima to implement a pioneering project aimed at supporting men and boy Syrian refugees who have been badly impacted by conflict and displacement. The programme was designed to foster healing through the sharing of past ordeals and mental health therapy, as well as providing educational and holistic activities to encourage self-expression and the processing of feelings through art, music and poetry.
Many of the male beneficiaries saw the atrocities of war with their own eyes, and were beaten or threatened themselves. Others saw women being subjected to violence and abuse, and even innocent men being beheaded. Although they locked away their trauma for many years, intense feelings of anger and fear inevitably built up, which they had no way of articulating or managing. Feelings of shame and social stigma had also prevented them from opening up about their experiences, especially in relation to struggles with mental health.
For the initial project, 25 men and boys were selected to take part, and the feedback and results were so encouraging that we again collaborated with Khaima to deliver a second round of the project in early 2022.
CASE STUDY
Aziz* is a Syrian refugee and married father of two young children, who has lived at Domiz 2 camp for eight years. He says: “I was glad to participate in the Men and Boys' Trauma project and really liked the awareness sessions. I was pleased to improve my English too. The psychological sessions and therapy were impactful and unique for us as men. I had never participated in such programmes before and I believe 90% of other men and boys hadn’t either. This project has helped me improve my skills, rebuild my life and become a better father to my kids, and a better husband to my wife.”
* Aziz’s name has been changed to protect his identity.